New Zealand monitors McKenzie's fitness ahead of South Africa test series
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 15, 2026, 9:06 PM
Last updated Aug 15, 2026
New Zealand is closely monitoring fullback Damian McKenzie’s ankle injury ahead of the test series opener against South Africa next Saturday. McKenzie twisted his ankle during a match against the Sharks on Tuesday. Coach Dave Rennie expressed optimism that injured backs Cam Roigard and Will Jordan would return, as they were expected to be fit for training by next week. Other key players, including captain Ardie Savea, have recently arrived in South Africa after being rested. Following their recent 50-19 victory over the Bulls, the All Blacks have focused on improving their set-pieces in preparation for the next match.
- •McKenzie twisted his ankle against the Sharks on Tuesday.
- •Roigard and Jordan expected to be fit for training next week.
- •New Zealand recently won 50-19 against the Bulls.
- •Captain Ardie Savea joins the team after a rest period.
- •All Blacks aim to improve set-piece performance against South Africa.
- 9:06 PMYahoo Sports — All Blacks sweating on McKenzie’s ankle ahead of South Africa test opener
"New Zealand is sweating on the fitness of fullback Damian McKenzie for the start of the test series against South Africa next week. Other injured backs Cam Roigard and Will Jordan were expected to be available, All Blacks coach Dave Rennie said on Saturday after beating the Bulls 50-19 at Loftus Versfeld in the last tune-up. McKenzie twisted his ankle on Tuesday against the Sharks.
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